Quick Answer: The standard rule is trade even or trade up — take an item only if you leave something of equal or greater value, and never take without leaving anything. Trackables (items with tracking codes) follow a separate rule: they must move to another cache, never be kept.

You open your first cache, see a small pile of trinkets, and freeze — what’s actually okay to take? The community has a clear, mostly unwritten code, and it’s simpler than it feels in the moment.

What does ‘trade even or trade up’ actually mean in practice?

If you take a small toy, leave something of similar size and perceived value — not a torn scrap of paper or something clearly worse. The standard isn’t monetary value, it’s comparable effort and thoughtfulness.

Many experienced cachers bring a small stash of “trade-ready” items specifically for this purpose before heading out, rather than deciding on the spot with nothing to offer.

What are trackables, and why are they treated differently?

Trackables (Travel Bugs, Geocoins) have a unique tracking code and a stated mission — often to travel to a specific type of location or simply move as far as possible. Taking one out of a cache and logging its movement online is expected; the etiquette breach is keeping it instead of moving it to another cache within a reasonable time, which effectively kills its journey.

If you take a trackable, the community norm is to move it to a new cache within a couple of weeks and log the movement online so the owner can follow its progress.

5 Mistakes Beginners Make With Swag and Trackables

1. Taking without leaving anything. This is the fastest way to get a reputation as inconsiderate among local cachers who track cache activity.

2. Leaving inappropriate or damaged items. Food, sharp objects, or broken items don’t count as a fair trade and can damage the cache.

3. Holding onto a trackable too long. Weeks turn into months, and the trackable’s owner loses the thread of its journey.

4. Not logging trackable movement online. The physical move matters less than logging it — the owner follows the journey through the log, not the object itself.

5. Assuming all caches have swag. Micro and nano caches often only fit a logbook — check cache size on the app before expecting trade items.

What if a cache has nothing worth trading?

That’s completely normal — many caches, especially smaller ones, contain only a logbook. Swag is a bonus feature of larger caches, not a guarantee. Sign the log, note the visit, and move on; there’s no obligation to leave an item if there’s nothing to trade for.

If you specifically enjoy the trading aspect, filter for larger cache sizes in the app before heading out, since swag capacity correlates directly with container size.

FAQ: Geocaching Swag Trading Questions, Answered

What items make good things to bring for trading?

Small, weather-resistant items like stickers, small toys, or novelty erasers — inexpensive but intentional, not random pocket lint.

Can I take a trackable if I don’t have the app to log it?

Technically yes, but it’s considered poor etiquette — logging is part of the trackable’s purpose, so download the app or note the code to log later.

Is it okay to take an item and leave nothing if the cache seems abandoned?

No — the trade-even rule applies regardless of how neglected a cache looks; if you genuinely have nothing to leave, it’s better to only sign the log and not take an item.

TL;DR:

• Trade even or trade up — never take without leaving something comparable
• Trackables must keep moving; log them online and pass them along within weeks
• Cache size determines swag capacity — micro caches usually only fit a logbook
• No obligation to trade if you have nothing suitable to leave